Case filed at court over lack of promotions, salary increments for healthcare workers

Local non-governmental organization advocating the rights of healthcare professionals in the Maldives, Health Protection Union (HFU) has filed a public interest litigation case at the Civil Court over the lack of an established framework on the implementation of salary increments and promotions of health sector workers.

In the case filed against Civil Service Commission, Finance Ministry and Health Ministry – HFU will be represented by Public Interest Law Center (PILC).

The case is submitted on behalf of 489 civil servants working in the health sector.

PICL’s President Mariyam Shunana said that the case was filed as the issues arising due to the infringed rights of health sector workers since the established civil service in 2008 – have still not been addressed despite efforts.

“HPU did a lot of work in order to see this problem solved,” she had said.

As per the Maldivian constitution – such a framework must be formulated by the Civil Service Commission. Shunana said that although a framework on the implementation of salary increments and promotions has been formulated for teachers and nurses within the past 15 years – the rights of other health sector workers have been infringed in this aspect.

PILC’s Vice President Abdulla Nihadh said that they met with Health Ministry and Civil Service Commission on three occasions to solve the matter.

“Each of those time, they have responded differently. Sometimes, they cited budget constraints. Our clients also met with Pay Commission. During this meeting, they said that these arrangements are settled based on how it is politically prioritized,” he detailed.

Shunana said that although the work these staff carry out are by no means easy, they are not given salary increments or promotions.

“The biggest service to the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic was rendered by health sector workers. Thus, it is concerning they do not receive fair wage,” she added.

Shunana said that although the case has been filed, there is still room for government authorities to address the matter.